1996 Buick Skylark Custom 3.1L from North America

Summary:

Faults:

At about 13000 miles (after the 100000 checkup) the Intake Manifold gasket started to leak ($400).

Water pump went ($25)

Alternator ($90) and Throttle Position sensor ($35) went out.

At about 160000 miles, the car almost caught on fire; Ignition switch and Starter (covered on recall).

General Comments:

This car is a Stop-light to Stop-light sleeper. I now have 226000 miles this car. Buick did a great job in styling and comfort. Power (155hp) is strong off the line and you can feel it till about 65 mph, then it's ho hum till it's peak at 105 mph. Handling was the only true flaw; Lots of body roll in the twisty and sharp nose dives when on the brakes hard.

1996 Buick Skylark Custom 3.1 V6 from North America

Summary:

Faults:

Some work had to be done on the transmission in mid-2000, exact details forgotten.

The water pump was replaced in December, 2003.

The AC evaporator coil sprung a leak in Summer 2003.

General Comments:

Don't let the name fool you: although the name Buick may conjure up visions of land yachts, the Skylark coupe definitely isn't.

Mind you, it isn't a sports car to compare with a Porsche or the like, but the 3100 V6 engine packs plenty of punch. I rarely have to floor the gas pedal to get as much acceleration as I need.

The lines and styling are wonderful -- well kept, it gets its fair share of compliments.

And it hasn't been an expensive car to own. Aside from routine maintenance, the four items I mentioned above are the only things that have required a trip to the shop. It gets pretty good gas mileage, too. Even with higher gas prices, I can fill my tank for about $20 or less.

On top of all that, it's also a very comfortable ride. I was sorry to see Buick stop making Skylarks -- I wouldn't have minded buying one new, when it came time to replace my current model.

1996 Buick Skylark Custom 3.2 six cylinder from North America

Summary:

Faults:

General Comments:

A beautiful car for the money. In my opinion the best car Buick has manufactured, recently. I'll keep mine for the rest of my life. I cherish it.

Fast, really fast for a Buick. Step on the gas and in about 10 seconds you'll be doing 120. It handles well at high speeds too.

Looks amazing lowered, custom rims, tint, you know the deal. I don't think blackouts or ground effects are made for this car though. But that's OK, you won't be like one of those fools who bought an Eclipse.

Very comfortable interior. Plush even. Comfortable front seats, comfortable back seats. Everything inside the car is well positioned, and easy to access while driving. It's a smaller car, but it feels big on the inside.